Livingstone University Teaching Hospital Hosts Launch of National Multi-Pathogen Diagnostic Programme

In a landmark event held at the Livingstone University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Izukanji Sikazwe, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ), officially launched the National Multi-Pathogen Diagnostic Programme (NMPDP). 

This innovative initiative aims to significantly enhance Zambia's ability to detect and combat infectious diseases.

Dr. Sikazwe emphasized the transformative potential of the NMPDP, describing it as a significant advancement in the nation’s public health infrastructure. 

“This program marks a significant leap in our collective pursuit of a healthier and more resilient Zambia,” she stated.

The initiative, funded by the American people through PEPFAR and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), underscores the critical role of international collaboration in global health security. 

Dr. Sikazwe expressed profound gratitude for this support, acknowledging the Ministry of Health’s leadership and vision as instrumental in bringing the NMPDP to fruition.

CIDRZ, with its over 23 years of experience in enhancing healthcare in Zambia, is the implementing partner for the NMPDP. 

The program leverages cutting-edge technologies in molecular diagnostics, microbiology, and genomic sequencing to rapidly and accurately identify a wide range of pathogens. 

This includes the procurement and distribution of nine open PCR machines across Zambia’s provinces, excluding Lusaka, which is already equipped.

 Initial testing sites have been established in Livingstone, Chinsali, and the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, with plans to expand to other provinces by the second quarter of the next financial year.

Dr. Sikazwe highlighted the integration of previous laboratory system improvements, such as electronic information management systems and backup solar energy, to support the NMPDP. 

This ensures timely and reliable access to test results, crucial for effective patient management. 

The enhanced diagnostic capability is expected to save lives and bolster Zambia’s disease surveillance system, enabling swift responses to emerging and re-emerging health threats.

“The NMPDP represents a paradigm shift in our approach to diagnostics,” Dr. Sikazwe remarked.

 She underscored the importance of continued partnership between the Ministry of Health and key stakeholders in the healthcare sector to bridge gaps in diagnostic infrastructure and ensure high-quality diagnostic services for all Zambians.

Dr. Sikazwe concluded her speech with a call to action, urging all parties to work towards the lasting success of the NMPDP. 

She reaffirmed CIDRZ’s commitment to this initiative, envisioning a future where every Zambian has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

The event marked not just a celebration, but a movement towards safeguarding the nation’s health, embodying the Ministry of Health's vision of creating a nation of healthy and productive people.

Book Review: Sweet Divorce: Navigating Separation with Dignity and Respect

 Book Review: "Sweet Divorce: Navigating Separation with Dignity and Respect" by Chali Mulenga

"Sweet Divorce: Navigating Separation with Dignity and Respect" by Chali Mulenga is a profound and compassionate guide for individuals navigating the complexities of divorce. Drawing on over two decades of writing experience and deep cultural insights, Mulenga offers a holistic approach to handling the emotional, practical, and spiritual challenges of ending a marriage.

Comprehensive and Thoughtful Guidance

From the very beginning, Mulenga sets a tone of empathy and understanding. The book is structured to walk readers through every stage of the divorce process. Each chapter builds upon the last, starting with the emotional turmoil of separation and moving through practical considerations, personal growth, and the nuances of cultural and religious contexts.

Balancing Practical Advice with Emotional Support

One of the book’s standout features is its balance of practical advice and emotional support. Mulenga doesn't shy away from the difficult aspects of divorce, such as legalities, financial planning, and co-parenting. He provides clear, actionable steps to help readers navigate these areas confidently. At the same time, he addresses the emotional pain and confusion that often accompany divorce, offering strategies for healing and self-care.

Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness

Mulenga's sensitivity to cultural practices, particularly the role of dowry in marriage and divorce, adds a unique and valuable dimension to the book. In Chapter 15, he explores how cultural expectations intersect with legal and religious views on marriage and divorce, providing readers with a nuanced understanding that is especially relevant for those in similar cultural contexts.

Community and Spiritual Support

Chapters 16 and 17 focus on the importance of community and spiritual support, highlighting how family, friends, religious leaders, and support groups can play pivotal roles in the healing process. Mulenga’s insights into leveraging these resources are practical and uplifting, encouraging readers to seek support and find strength in their communities.

Empowerment and Personal Growth

Throughout the book, Mulenga emphasizes empowerment and personal growth. He encourages readers to view divorce not as a failure but as an opportunity for transformation and renewal. By focusing on self-discovery, setting new goals, and envisioning a positive future, readers are guided towards a path of resilience and fulfillment.

Conclusion

"Sweet Divorce: Navigating Separation with Dignity and Respect" is an invaluable resource for anyone facing the difficult journey of divorce. Chali Mulenga’s compassionate and comprehensive approach offers readers the tools and support they need to navigate this challenging time with dignity and grace. His deep understanding of cultural nuances and commitment to personal empowerment make this book a standout guide in the genre. Whether you are at the beginning of your divorce process or seeking ways to move forward, this book provides the wisdom and encouragement to help you find peace and build a fulfilling future.

Unwavering Love: The Transformative Power of Caregiving and Wellness

 Analysis and Opinion: The Wellness and Healthy Benefits of Familial Dedication and Caregiving

The story of Mara Moyo's dedication to her father's care is not just a testament to familial love but also an exploration of the profound wellness benefits derived from such dedication. Her selfless commitment and the ensuing emotional and psychological rewards underscore the intricate connection between caregiving, wellness, and healthy living.

  Emotional Well-being Through Purposeful Caregiving

Mara's unwavering devotion to her father, Joseph, highlights a significant aspect of caregiving: its role in providing a profound sense of purpose. Purpose is a critical component of emotional well-being. It gives individuals a reason to wake up each day, fostering a sense of fulfillment and direction. Mara's caregiving journey, driven by love and the desire to emulate her father's compassion, illustrates how purposeful caregiving can lead to immense personal satisfaction and emotional resilience.

  The Psychological Impact of Strong Familial Bonds

The bond between Mara and her father showcases the deep psychological benefits of strong familial connections. These bonds often act as emotional anchors, providing stability and comfort in times of adversity. Mara's experience emphasizes the positive impact of such relationships on mental health. Their shared moments of laughter, support, and companionship not only strengthen their relationship but also contribute to their overall psychological well-being. This emotional support is vital in navigating the challenges associated with caregiving and chronic illness.

 Physical Wellness Through Active Caregiving

Mara's daily routine, centered around her father's complex medical needs, is physically demanding. The tasks of assisting with bathing, managing medications, and accompanying Joseph to medical appointments require significant physical effort. While caregiving can be exhausting, it also promotes physical activity, which is essential for maintaining overall health. Mara's commitment to ensuring her father's comfort by taking him outdoors for fresh air and sunshine highlights the importance of incorporating physical wellness into caregiving routines.

The Societal and Cultural Dimensions of Caregiving

Mara's story also reflects broader societal and cultural dimensions of caregiving, particularly in the Zambian context. In many African cultures, caregiving is a familial responsibility, deeply rooted in communal values. This approach contrasts with Western practices, where professional caregiving and nursing homes are more common. Mara's dedication exemplifies the strength of these cultural norms, emphasizing the importance of family support systems in promoting wellness and healthy living.

 Advocacy and Recognition of Caregivers

Mara's journey underscores the need for greater recognition and support for caregivers. Her advocacy for acknowledging caregivers' contributions mirrors her father's ethos of service to humanity. Caregivers play a crucial role in healthcare systems, often providing essential care that alleviates hospital congestion and promotes community-based healthcare. Mara's call for governmental recognition of caregivers highlights the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.

Lessons in Preventive Medicine and Holistic Health

Inspired by her father's legacy, Mara aspires to pursue preventive medicine, emphasizing community-based healthcare rooted in disease prevention and education. This approach aligns with the principles of holistic health, which advocate for a comprehensive view of wellness that includes physical, emotional, and social well-being. By promoting preventive measures and health education, Mara aims to continue her father's work in uplifting vulnerable communities and fostering a healthier society.

Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Love and Care

Mara Moyo's story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of love and caregiving. Her unwavering dedication to her father's care reflects the profound emotional, psychological, and physical benefits derived from such selflessness. As Mara continues her journey, her narrative serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the enduring impact of love, sacrifice, and familial bonds on our overall wellness and healthy living. Through her experiences, Mara leaves behind a poignant legacy of compassion and resilience, underscoring the true fulfillment that comes from giving all for the comfort and well-being of those we cherish.

Chinese assistance holds key for Zambia - World

Chinese assistance holds key for Zambia - World - Chinadaily.com.cn

Stop Kindergarten Politics: African Woman Foundation Director Calls for Unity Amid Loadshedding Crisis

 Livingstone, June 18, 2024 — Amidst the crippling 18-hour daily loadshedding that has plunged Zambia into darkness, Joseph Moyo, the Director of The African Woman Foundation, called for a significant shift in the country's political landscape. Addressing journalists in Livingstone, he urged politicians to move beyond "kindergarten or preschool politics" and engage in meaningful dialogue to address the pressing national issues.

"Politicians should not play kindergarten or preschool politics of just throwing things at each other," Moyo stated firmly. "We politicians need dialogue in the country over national matters affecting the people; otherwise, people will not take them seriously."

Moyo highlighted the adverse impacts of the prolonged power cuts on everyday life and the economy, emphasizing that the political leadership must unite to find sustainable solutions. He criticized the current approach where political figures use social media platforms to propose solutions, calling it ineffective.

"Politicians should not be using social media in finding solutions for the country. Dialogue must be promoted and actualized," he insisted. "They should give each other the right advice and not hide."

He also underscored the importance of humility and collaborative wisdom among those in power, reminding them that they do not have a monopoly on knowledge. "People in power should not think that they have the monopoly of knowledge," Moyo noted, urging leaders to seek and respect advice from diverse sources.

Addressing the opposition, he called for a more constructive approach, condemning the negative rhetoric often exchanged between government and opposition members. "People in opposition should not speak ill or bad of the people in government and vice versa," he urged.

In a poignant reminder of the nation's history, he concluded by emphasizing that no more lives should be lost in political struggles. "No one should die for this country because people have already died – those who fought for independence," he said.

Joseph Moyo's call for unity and dialogue comes at a critical time for Zambia. As the nation grapples with severe loadshedding, his message highlights the need for cohesive and constructive political engagement to navigate these challenging times.

Corruption Allegations Tarnish Livingstone Mayor's Office in Zambia

In a developing scandal that has reverberated through the political landscape of Livingstone, Zambia, Mayor Constance stands accused of involvement in a bribery scheme with Zam Nuka Farm, raising serious questions about ethics and governance in the region.

According to investigative documents obtained recently, Mayor Constance allegedly accepted K180,000 from Zam Nuka Farm's owner in exchange for facilitating the cancellation of property rates totaling over K300,000. Despite the substantial payment, the Livingstone council reportedly only granted a K90,000 remission, leaving the farm owner dissatisfied and highlighting discrepancies in the transaction's fulfillment.

Joseph Moyo, Director at The African Woman Foundation, expressed his views on the unfolding controversy, urging restraint and due process amidst the accusations. "The people should allow the mayor to continue her work amidst these allegations," Moyo emphasized, signaling a stance of support for Mayor Constance's capacity to govern despite the allegations looming over her.

Moyo also pointed out longstanding opposition to Mayor Constance, both from the public and within her political party. "There has been consistent resistance against her, both during her tenure and within her party," Moyo noted, highlighting the polarizing nature of her leadership.

Calling for accountability, Moyo urged the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged bribery attempt. "Let the law prosecute those attempting to corrupt a public officer," Moyo asserted, underscoring the importance of upholding integrity in public service.

Amidst growing scrutiny, Moyo cautioned against undue interference in the mayor's responsibilities, stressing the need to allow due process to unfold. "People should refrain from interfering with her duties," he urged, advocating for a fair investigation process.

The allegations have sparked widespread concern among residents of Livingstone and have drawn international attention to governance practices in Zambia. As the investigation progresses, the outcome will likely impact public trust in local authorities and could shape future political dynamics in the region.

In conclusion, Mayor Constance's administration faces a critical juncture as authorities and the public await further developments in this unfolding saga, hoping for transparency and accountability to prevail in the face of corruption allegations.

Mukuni Royal Establishment Urges Responsible Social Media Use Amidst Growing Concerns

Mukuni Chiefdom, Zambia — The Mukuni Royal Establishment (MRE) has issued a call to young people in the chiefdom to exercise responsibility in their use of social media platforms, highlighting concerns over the potential negative impact of inappropriate content on the community's reputation.

 MRE Mwendambeli (prime minister of Mukuni chiefdom) Stanley Siamapa emphasized the importance of avoiding abusive behavior online and urged for responsible social media usage.

"Wrong videos posted on social media might end up portraying a wrong perception of our way of life," Mr. Siamapa cautioned, stressing the need for young people to use social media responsibly.

Mr. Siamapa's remarks came following his attendance at a debate contest organized by the Coalition of Women in Politics Zambia at Mukuni Secondary School. 

He expressed satisfaction with the youth's awareness of social media and encouraged them to be mindful of the content they share.

"I am happy that the young people in the chiefdom are knowledgeable about social media," he remarked. "I want to encourage them to ensure that they post the right things."

Acknowledging the far-reaching impact of social media, Mr. Siamapa noted the challenges posed by viral content. 

"Once the information goes viral, it is difficult to retrieve it from social media," he stated, underlining the need for responsible social media use to maintain community integrity and reputation.

Meanwhile, the Coalition of Women in Politics (COWIP) Zambia has intensified its efforts to raise civic awareness among rural populations, ensuring their inclusion in governance and leadership roles.

 COWIP Southern Province team leader Albina Musakanya highlighted the importance of dispelling stereotypes and empowering rural residents to engage in civic matters.

"Our goal is to ensure that young people, especially women and the disabled, are not left out in governance," 

Ms. Musakanya affirmed, emphasizing the coalition's commitment to promoting inclusivity and representation across urban and rural areas.

Mwalibonena Ward Councillor Juliet Hambizi praised the growing confidence and leadership potential of Zambia's youth, affirming their readiness to actively participate in governance. 

Ms. Hambizi commended the research abilities of young people in rural areas and their increasing engagement in governance issues, envisioning a future where they take on leadership roles.

As initiatives like COWIP's civic awareness programs continue to empower young people across Zambia, the nation looks toward a future where inclusive governance and responsible social media usage contribute to a more vibrant and informed society.